Geneva Motor Show: practical information, opening hours and advice
The Geneva Motor Show, an emblematic automotive event that has marked the history of the industry for almost a century, is now being revived in a new form. After an absence of several years and a number of twists and turns, Geneva’s motoring tradition is now being perpetuated through autoXpérience Genève, a new-generation concept that will be taking place from 5 to 8 March 2026 at Palexpo. Featuring new vehicles, test drives and expert advice, this event marks the revival of motoring passion in the city of Calvin. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine your visit with a visit to Geneva, the magnificent city on the shores of Lake Geneva that’s well worth a visit.
The prestigious history of the Geneva Motor Show
Created in 1905, the Geneva International Motor Show has established itself over more than a century as one of the world’s most prestigious motoring events. From 1934 onwards, the Geneva show acquired a worldwide reputation that has grown steadily over the decades. From spectacular world premieres to futuristic concept cars and prestige models from the world’s leading manufacturers, Geneva has long been the unmissable showcase for automotive innovation.
Iconic brands such as Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo and many others marked the show’s history with memorable presentations. The Geneva Motor Show had become much more than just a commercial event: it was a cultural rendezvous where automotive passion, technical excellence and the Swiss art of living came together. Switzerland’s neutrality allowed all manufacturers, whatever their nationality, to meet on neutral ground, making Geneva a unique venue in the landscape of European motor shows.
autoXpérience Geneva: the new automotive rendezvous
Following the discontinuation of the Geneva International Motor Show in 2024, a new concept has emerged to perpetuate Geneva’s automotive tradition. autoXpérience Genève represents a modern and renewed approach to the automotive event. From 5 to 8 March 2026, Palexpo will play host to this new-generation event that focuses on the customer experience and hands-on discovery of vehicles.
Organised by Palexpo and UPSA (Union Professionnelle Suisse de l’Automobile), autoXpérience is positioned as a regional event dedicated to new vehicles, with an immersive and dynamic concept. The first edition in March 2025 was a resounding success, with over 13,600 visitors, confirming the public’s enthusiasm for this new format. Nearly 270 new vehicles will be on display, including passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, offering visitors a comprehensive overview of the current automotive offering.
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Dates and times of the Geneva 2026 Motor Show
AutoXpérience Genève will be held from Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 March 2026 at Palexpo, Geneva’s exhibition centre located right next to the airport. Opening times have been designed to offer visitors a high degree of flexibility:
- Thursday 5 March: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm
- Friday 6 March: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm
- Saturday 7 March: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm
- Sunday 8 March: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm
These generous opening hours mean that visitors can take full advantage of the event, whether you’re a car enthusiast who wants to take your time or just curious to discover the latest developments in the sector. The weekend is a particularly good opportunity for families to come and discover the vehicles on show together.
Prices and tickets for autoXpérience
autoXpérience Genève’s pricing policy is designed to be affordable and to encourage online advance purchase. Here are the detailed prices:
Adult tickets (from 16 years) :
- Online: CHF 10.00
- On site: CHF 13.00
Reduced tickets (AVS, AI, students, groups of 10 or more) :
- Online: Free
- On site: CHF 5.00
Children (under 16): Free (online and on site)
The advantage of buying tickets online is twofold: not only do you benefit from a preferential rate, but you also avoid any queues at the ticket offices. Online ticketing is available directly from the official autoXpérience website.
How to get to Palexpo for the show
Palexpo’s exceptional location makes it easy to get to the event. The exhibition centre is located at Route François-Peyrot 30, 1218 Le Grand-Saconnex, just a few minutes from Geneva international airport.
By public transport
Palexpo is particularly well served by Geneva’s public transport system. From Geneva Airport station, the site can be reached on foot in just 10 minutes. Several bus and tram lines also link Geneva city centre to Palexpo in less than 15 minutes. The Transports Publics Genevois (TPG) offer daily tickets that can be combined with your admission to the show for optimum mobility.
By car
For visitors coming by car, Palexpo has direct access from the A1 motorway. Car parks are available on site, although prices can be relatively high. It may be advisable to use the park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the venue and to reach the site by public transport to avoid parking charges.
From abroad
The proximity of Geneva-Cointrin international airport makes the event easily accessible from all over Europe and beyond. Many airlines offer direct flights to Geneva. For French visitors, the TGV Lyria connects Paris to Geneva in 3 hours 15 minutes, while from Lyon, Annecy or Chamonix, access by car or train remains very simple.
What to discover at the Geneva Motor Show
AutoXpérience Genève offers an innovative approach that goes beyond simply exhibiting vehicles. The concept revolves around four main themes:
Discover
Nearly 270 new vehicles will be on display at the show. Passenger cars, light commercial vehicles, electric, hybrid and combustion-powered cars: there’s something to suit every need and budget. Visitors can wander freely between the different stands and discover the latest innovations on the automotive market.
Test
One of the great advantages of autoXpérience is the opportunity to take a test drive. Unlike traditional motor shows, where you simply admire the vehicles from behind the ropes, here you can actually get behind the wheel and form your own opinion about the models that interest you. Test drives are organised to allow visitors to test the vehicles in real-life conditions.
Compare
Car professionals are on hand to help you make your choice. Dealers and industry experts are on hand to answer your questions, help you compare different models and guide you towards the vehicle that best suits your needs and budget.
Acquire
autoXpérience is not just about getting to know your new car, it’s also about making your purchase a reality. The dealers present can offer you special show deals and help you with all the formalities involved in buying your future vehicle. Financing solutions are also available on site to make your purchase easier.
Make the most of your stay and discover Geneva
Your presence at the Geneva Motor Show is the ideal opportunity to discover this magnificent Swiss city, which is well worth your time. Nestling between Lake Geneva and the Alps, Geneva offers an exceptional setting and a rich cultural heritage.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Geneva on foot and on your own
Whether you’ve come for the motor show or simply want to extend your stay, we recommend that you follow our Geneva sightseeing itinerary. This audioguided tour will enable you to discover the city’s 24 must-see places of interest independently and at your own pace. From the famous Jet d’Eau to the majestic Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, via the charming Place du Bourg-de-Four and the peaceful shores of Lake Geneva, you won’t miss a thing of Geneva’s treasures.
The Navaway tour takes you through the medieval old town, along the Promenade de la Treille, past the Town Hall and through the elegant shopping streets. You’ll discover the fascinating history of this city, which was the cradle of the Protestant Reformation and is now home to the European headquarters of the United Nations. The entertaining audio guides reveal anecdotes, legends and secrets of the city, making your visit as instructive as it is entertaining.
Geneva’s must-sees
During your stay in Geneva, be sure to visit the city’s iconic monuments. The 140-metre-high Jet d’Eau can be seen from almost anywhere in the city and is one of Geneva’s most recognisable symbols. The Flower Clock in the Jardin Anglais bears witness to Swiss watchmaking expertise, while the Parc des Bastions offers a haven of peace right in the heart of the city, with its famous Reformers’ Wall.
The Museum of Art and History is one of the most important in Switzerland and well worth a visit if you have a little time to spare. Architecture buffs will love the Ancien Arsenal and the Maison Tavel, the city’s oldest private residence. And for a breathtaking panoramic view of Geneva, the lake and the surrounding Alps, climb to the top of Saint-Pierre Cathedral.
By combining your visit to the Motor Show with the discovery of Geneva thanks to the Navaway audioguided itinerary, you’ll make the most of your stay in this fascinating city. Let us guide you through the cobbled streets, along the lakeside quays and through the green parks for a complete and unforgettable Geneva experience.
Practical tips for your visit
Allow sufficient time
Although the event is more compact than the old Geneva Motor Show, you should allow at least 2 to 3 hours to make the most of your visit, especially if you want to go for a test drive. Waiting times for test drives can be longer at weekends.
Book your tests
If you have specific models in mind that you absolutely must try out, find out about booking options beforehand. Some exhibitors allow you to book a test drive slot via their website or on the spot when you arrive at the show.
Currency and means of payment
Don’t forget that Geneva is in Switzerland and that the local currency is the Swiss franc (CHF). Most establishments accept bank cards, but it may be useful to have a few Swiss francs in cash. Some shops also accept euros, but the exchange rate applied is generally not advantageous.
Combine with a visit to Geneva
If you’re coming from abroad, make the most of your trip to spend at least one full day in Geneva. The city is easy to explore on foot, and our audio tour will help you make the most of your time so you don’t miss any of the essentials. Many hotels offer attractive packages including overnight accommodation and free public transport.
In conclusion, the Geneva Motor Show has reinvented itself through autoXpérience to continue to bring the passion for motoring to life in the city of Lake Geneva. From 5 to 8 March 2026, this new-generation event awaits you at Palexpo for four days of discoveries, test drives and discussions with industry professionals. With its affordable prices, proximity to the city centre and immersive concept, autoXpérience is the must-attend motoring event in French-speaking Switzerland. Take advantage of this opportunity to combine your passion for cars with the discovery of Geneva, this magnificent city with so much to offer. Thanks to the Navaway audio tour, you can explore the city on your own and be charmed by its history, architecture and exceptional setting on the shores of Lake Geneva. Enjoy your visit to Geneva!
Frequently asked questions about the Geneva Motor Show
When is the 2026 Geneva Motor Show?
The Geneva Motor Show, in its new autoXpérience format, will be held from Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 March 2026 at Palexpo. The event is open from 10am to 8pm from Thursday to Saturday, and from 10am to 6pm on Sunday.
How much does it cost to enter the Geneva Motor Show?
Prices vary according to the method of purchase. Adult tickets cost CHF 10 online and CHF 13 on site. Reduced tickets (AVS, AI, students) are free online and CHF 5 on the door. Admission is free for children under 16.
Where is Palexpo and how do I get there?
Palexpo is located Route François-Peyrot 30, 1218 Le Grand-Saconnex, in the immediate vicinity of Geneva International Airport. The site can be reached on foot in 10 minutes from Geneva Airport station, and is well served by public transport from the city centre.
Is it possible to test drive cars at the Motor Show?
Yes, one of the highlights of autoXpérience is the opportunity to test drive the vehicles on display. Test drives are organised to allow visitors to test the models they are interested in in real-life conditions.
Does the Geneva Motor Show still exist?
The Geneva International Motor Show, in its traditional form, came to an end in 2024. It has been replaced by autoXpérience Genève, a new concept focusing more on the customer experience and hands-on discovery of vehicles, organised by Palexpo and UPSA.
What to do in Geneva during the Motor Show
Geneva has a wealth of tourist attractions to discover. We recommend that you follow our audio tour, which takes you through the city’s 24 must-see places of interest, including the Jet d’Eau, St Peter’s Cathedral, the Old Town, Lake Geneva and many other Geneva wonders.
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